Volunteer of the Month

Congratulations to our March Volunteer of the Month, Chris Chin! We couldn’t be more thankful for Chris’ leadership. We recently sat down for a quick interview.

How did you first get involved with RTSF?

It was back in my high school days when then-Christmas in April San Francisco came to then-Galileo High School to do the renovations to our school. It was after a day of volunteering that left an impression that I carry with me 18 years later.

What is your professional background, and how does RTSF relate?

I worked for Morrison & Foerster as a Conflicts Analyst. Morrison & Foerster have been a sponsor of Rebuilding Together San Francisco for many years. When I joined the firm years ago and found out that they sponsor RTSF, I jumped at rejoining the project. The role of Volunteer Captain came to me as the previous two leaders for the firm headed into retirement.

What keeps you hooked with RTSF?

It’s the people and all the positive impact it leaves behind when you are done with the project. I worked on various projects: a high school library, an urban community garden for an elementary school, a community theater, a homeless halfway house, and much more. Each of those projects have left a positive impact within the community. It what drives me to do this each year.

What is your favorite RTSF story or anecdote?

There was one year that I was working on a preschool and neighborhood center in the Mission. During the afternoon, the kids and the people came by and saw what we were building for them. The kids were so happy and excited for their new play area and were smiling so much! That has left an everlasting impression on me.

Any parting words you’d like to share with the RTSF world?

Always give your all to your projects. Your time you put, whether it was for a day or weeks or months, will compound for many hours in the future. Also, bring your teenagers to these projects, you might never know if that one project will be able to sprout a future volunteer long-lifer!

Congratulations to our February Volunteer of the Month, Abe Lopez! We couldn’t be more thankful for Abe’s service. We recently sat down for a quick interview.

How did you first get involved with RTSF?

I had the opportunity to volunteer with another Rebuilding Together chapter in Portland, Oregon a few years ago and had a great time. Plus we were really making a positive difference in the lives of the homeowners; they were so appreciative! When I relocated back to the Bay Area last year, I jumped at the chance to participate in RT events around here. It’s really a win-win for everyone involved.

What is your professional background, and how does RTSF relate?

Well, in 2012, after 5 years of hard work, training, and schooling, I became a licensed union electrician with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). I enjoy working with my hands, but I almost always seem to have extra energy left at the end of the day, so volunteering with RT is a natural fit.

What keeps you hooked with RTSF?

The homeowners! I got a high-five the other day when I was done at a house. That was the best!

What is your favorite RTSF story or anecdote?I think the way every RTSF event brings people from such varied backgrounds together is a great story in and of itself. The common sense of civic duty I see in the other volunteers is a source of inspiration.

Any parting words you’d like to share with the RTSF world?Yes: Keep up the good work!

Before joining us as a volunteer, Tom served with the Tool Lending Library. However, when the library closed its doors, former RTSF staff member Kat Sawyer suggested to Tom that he try volunteering with us. We’re so glad she did, since Tom has been one of the most steadfast volunteers we’ve had. He’s been coming back so regularly he’s not even sure what year of volunteerism this is for him. 6th? 7th? “To be honest with you, I don’t really know.” Read More »

RTSF has been undergoing some changes lately, such as our transition from rickety technology, to the sleek data filing system of Salesforce. And we couldn’t have done it without Philip Faulconer! Read More »

Starting out as a field volunteer with Pacific Bell, Cathy served each April with RTSF for several years before she made the leap to managing her own RD site as a project lead. Now with four years of project lead experience behind her, RTSF is honored to present Cathy as our August volunteer of the month. Read More »

Have you met our June volunteer of the month, Kevin Skiles? If you haven’t, then you should. Kevin has volunteered with us since April of 2001, first as a skilled volunteer for 12 years, then as a member of the board for 3, and now as board president for a year and a half. Read More »

Congratulations to Mr. Charlie Keen for his superior volunteer work, attention to details, and friendly personality while serving our clients. We couldn’t ask for a better face to front our projects since 2000. Your project management skills are immaculate; from providing task index cards to exceptional leadership qualities Rebuilding Together San Francisco could not be more proud to have you a part of our committed volunteer team! Read More »

This month Rebuilding Together San Francisco is highlighting volunteer, intern and social media guru, Emily Marsh! Emily started interning with RTSF the end of November 2012 and was with us through the beginning of March 2013. Her attentive, driven and quick-witted personality was a great asset to our social media planning and strategy; as for our social media following and awareness, Emily enhanced these by leaps and bounds during her short period with us. Read More »

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